Potential of low-risk COVID-19 exposure on school bus

Dr. Piotr “Peter” Oglaza

Dr. Piotr Oglaza, Medical Officer of Health and CEO at Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) is advising anyone who rode on Craig Smith Bus Lines bus #895 to Kente Public School, Trenton High School or St. Paul Catholic Secondary School on Dec. 14, 15, 16, 17 or 18 that they may have had low-risk exposure to COVID-19.

An individual who was on the bus on these dates has tested positive for COVID-19. While the bus has a screening process and infection control procedures in place, out of an abundance of caution, HPEPH is considering all individuals who rode on the bus on these dates to have a low-risk exposure to the virus. HPEPH requires anyone who rode on Craig Smith Bus Line bus #895 on Dec. 14 – 18 to self-monitor and to get tested for COVID-19 if symptoms develop.

While HPEPH does not typically disclose individual COVID-19 cases in order to protect privacy, this information is being disclosed in order to notify potential contacts and reduce the risk of further transmission in our community.

Algonquin and Lakeshore District Catholic School Board, Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board and Tri-Board Student Transportation Services are working closely with HPEPH to ensure that all individuals are notified as promptly as possible.

“While our investigation indicates that the risk of exposure is low, all individuals who rode the bus on these dates are required to monitor for symptoms and seek testing if symptoms develop,” said Dr. Oglaza.

Information about where you can get tested can be found at hpePublicHealth.ca. To learn more about COVID-19, how you can protect yourself and what to do if you suspect you may be at risk, visit hpePublicHealth.ca